Report: NFL investigator previously recommended no suspension for Elliott

NFL lead investigator Kia Roberts recommended no suspension for Ezekiel Elliott, after speaking to his ex-girlfriend who alleged the Dallas Cowboys running back committed an act of domestic violence against her, according to Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Elliott was suspended for six games on Aug. 11 for a violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy and is currently appealing the sanction.

Roberts made her previous recommendation clear during Elliott's suspension appeal hearing, and was the only NFL employee to meet with Elliott's accuser. However, her recommendation was never included in the NFL's final report and suspension letter issued to Elliott.

Goodell held a meeting with senior vice president of investigations Lisa Friel, executive vice president Jeff Pash, and senior vice president of labor policy and government affairs, Adolpho Birch, which was held without Roberts, reportedly at Friel's request.

Friel then recommended a six-game ban for Elliott which the league acted upon.

Since Roberts was absent from the meeting that ultimately led to Elliott's suspension, the NFLPA believes it has a very good chance of getting the sanction voided.

Roberts is currently listed as the NFL's director of investigations.

Elliott was never charged or arrested.